Posted by Taylor

11 Unique Winter Activities in Breckenridge You Can’t Miss

Snow-covered peaks, cozy lodges, and endless adventure: Breckenridge delivers winter magic that goes far beyond the slopes.

Sure, skiing and snowboarding take center stage in Breckenridge, but there's a whole world of other unforgettable experiences waiting once you click out of your bindings.

From gliding behind huskies to exploring historic gold mines, this mountain town is packed with ways to make your cold-weather getaway truly one of a kind.

What else is there to do in winter in Breckenridge besides skiing? Here are a few ideas:

  1. Snowmobiling: Ride across powder fields and up mountain peaks on guided tours with breathtaking alpine views.

  2. Dog Sledding: Dash through snowy valleys with Siberian huskies and try hands-on mushing for pure winter joy.

  3. Nordic Skiing: Glide over 1,400 acres of scenic trails — a peaceful, full-body workout in the crisp mountain air.

  4. Snow Biking: Join locals on fat-tire bikes along snowy singletrack trails — fast, fun, and unforgettable.

  5. Snowshoeing: Wander quiet forests and moonlit trails on easy hikes that everyone can enjoy.

  6. Hut Trips: Stay in historic backcountry lodges, share stories by the fire, and watch stars fill the sky.

  7. Mine Tours: Explore old tunnels, pan for gold, and uncover Breckenridge's mining past.

  8. Sledding: Zip down Carter Park Hill — simple, classic winter fun for all ages.

  9. Breck Create Classes: Take a pottery, dance, or photo class and discover Breckenridge's creative side.

  10. Recreation Center: Unwind with yoga, climbing, or a swim — the perfect off-slope reset.

  11. Ice Skating: Skate indoors or under the stars — hockey, curling, and winter charm included.


At Great Western Lodging, we specialize in premium, boutique-style vacation rentals, taking pride in creating a true mountain escape where comfort meets adventure.

As locals, we know Breckenridge, Frisco, and Keystone like the back of our hands, and our blog is packed with insider tips for your next mountain getaway. Visiting our region for the first time? Planning a ski trip? Into summer mountain thrills? We've got you covered!

Today, we're bringing you 11 unique winter activities in Breckenridge you'll want on your list.


1. SNOWMOBILING


High-speed adventures and mountain panoramas


If you're craving an adrenaline rush or just giving your legs a rest, snowmobiling is a must-try. Guided tours wind through ghost towns and open meadows, leading you to stunning viewpoints above the Tenmile Range.


Why You Should Try It

  • Explore ghost towns and mining ruins on guided tours
  • Feel the thrill of cruising through powdery fields
  • Take in sweeping mountain and ski-area views
  • Options for beginners and seasoned riders alike
  • Great for groups or families wanting something different


2. DOG SLEDDING


A truly unforgettable way to see Breckenridge


Glide through pine-lined valleys behind a team of Siberian huskies — and yes, you get to drive. The rhythmic sound of paws on snow and crisp alpine air make for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.


Why You Should Try It

  • Take the reins and steer your own sled
  • Meet and interact with friendly huskies
  • Six-mile routes through scenic winter landscapes
  • Perfect blend of excitement and serenity
  • Ideal for couples, families, or animal lovers


3. NORDIC SKIING


Breathe deep, glide far, and earn your views


The Breckenridge Nordic Center, nestled between Peaks 6 and 7, offers 1,400 acres of trails designed for both skate and classic cross-country skiing. It's a peaceful way to explore the mountains while getting a full-body workout.


Why You Should Try It

  • Trails for every level — from beginners to pros
  • Take lessons in skate or classic techniques
  • Glide through forests and open meadows
  • Warm lodge with rentals and cozy café
  • Great low-impact cardio alternative to alpine skiing


4. SNOW BIKING


Fat-tire freedom on the snow


Wonder what those bikes with huge tires are for? Snow biking has become a local obsession. Rent a "fatty" and hit the trails — you'll be amazed at how easily it rolls across snow and ice.


Why You Should Try It

  • Unique mix of biking and winter fun
  • Available rentals around town
  • Trails for all skill levels
  • Great way to explore at your own pace
  • Burns off après-ski indulgences


5. SNOWSHOEING


Find your quiet place in the snow


Slip on a pair of snowshoes and set off into a sparkling winter wonderland. With trails winding through aspens and pine forests, it's the perfect activity for peace, photos, and connection with nature.


Why You Should Try It

  • Easy to learn, great for all ages
  • Access untouched parts of the mountain
  • Guided full-moon and nature hikes available
  • Excellent for wildlife spotting and photography
  • A calm counterpoint to the ski-slope energy


6. HUT TRIPS


Adventure, history, and starlit nights


Step back in time with a stay at one of Breckenridge's 10th Mountain Division huts, rustic backcountry lodges that dot the surrounding wilderness. Once used by soldiers training for WWII alpine combat, these huts now offer cozy, heat-by-wood-stove comfort and pure mountain solitude.


Why You Should Try It

  • Access 34 huts within easy reach of Breck
  • Combine cross-country skiing or snowshoeing with overnight stays
  • Enjoy wood-stove warmth and mountain camaraderie
  • Star-filled skies you'll never forget
  • Book early — they fill fast every winter


7. MINE TOURS


Go for gold — literally


Discover Breckenridge's glittering past with a visit to Country Boy Mine, where you can pan for gold and explore underground tunnels carved more than a century ago. It's a fun, educational adventure for all ages.


Why You Should Visit

  • Step into Colorado's mining history
  • Pan for real gold and gemstones
  • Explore authentic mine shafts and tunnels
  • Hear fascinating stories from guides
  • Great hands-on activity for kids and families


8. SLEDDING AT CARTER PARK


Old-fashioned winter fun for everyone


Grab a sled — or anything that slides — and head to Carter Park, Breck's favorite free hill for all-day laughter and thrills. From sunrise to sundown, it's pure nostalgic joy.


Why You Should Visit

  • Family-friendly slope with gentle grade
  • Bring your own sleds or rent nearby
  • Open daily, free of charge
  • Scenic views of the town and ski area
  • Perfect for low-key fun after skiing


9. BRECK CREATE CLASSES


Fuel your creative side this winter


Breckenridge isn't just about outdoor adventure — it's also a thriving arts community. Breck Create offers workshops and classes all winter long, from pottery and painting to dance, music, and photography.


Why You Should Visit

  • Huge variety of classes for kids and adults
  • Learn pottery, collage, painting, dance, and more
  • Drop-in or multi-session options available
  • Great way to connect with local artists
  • Inspiring alternative to a day on the slopes


10. BRECKENRIDGE RECREATION CENTER


Your indoor wellness escape


Stay active no matter the weather at the Breckenridge Recreation Center, where you'll find yoga and barre studios, tennis courts, a climbing wall, and even a lazy river.


Why You Should Visit

  • Yoga, barre, BodyPump, and more
  • Indoor tennis and climbing facilities
  • Lap pool, leisure pool, and lazy river
  • Great for families and fitness lovers
  • All-day passes available for visitors


11. ICE SKATING & HOCKEY


Cool thrills on the ice — indoors or out


For a quintessential winter moment, visit the Stephen C. West Ice Arena on the south side of town. You'll find indoor and outdoor rinks, drop-in hockey, and even curling sessions for a playful twist on your Breck itinerary.


Why You Should Visit

  • Skate indoors or under the stars
  • Drop-in hockey and curling programs
  • Skate rentals and lessons available
  • Family-friendly atmosphere with great music
  • Fun evening activity after a day on the slopes


BONUS: STAY WHERE THE FUN NEVER ENDS


After a day of adventure, nothing beats retreating to a cozy mountain rental with plenty of room to unwind.


Top Picks from Great Western Lodging:

  • Sawmill Creek Condo: Mountain-view unit with a billiards table, walking distance to Main Street.

  • The Corral Condos: Access to a huge game room with pool, ping pong, and air hockey — perfect for families.

  • The Lodge at Trapper's Glen: Luxury cabin with a theater room, foosball, and private entertainment bar for group getaways.



Where to Stay During Your Visit to Breckenridge, Frisco, and Keystone


At Great Western Lodging, we offer a superior selection of luxury properties, ski-in/ski-out options, and downtown lodgings in Breckenridge, Frisco, and Keystone.

Staying in one of our properties, we guarantee you'll have nothing less than a 5-star experience during your trip to Colorado.

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